MR. BURNIEOn behalf of the hon. Member for Ross and Cromarty (Mr. Weir), I beg to ask the Secretary for Scotland whether he is aware that the agreement between the Master of Blantyre and others for the destruction and keeping down of foxes has proved ineffectual, and that at a meeting held at Eilanreach on the 19th July, under the auspices of the Master of Blantyre, it was shown that the farmers and crofters are suffering extensively from foxes destroying their sheep stock owing to the increase of foxes lately, arising from the extension of deer forests, and the carelessness in keeping them down; and whether the Government will take steps to protect farmers and crofters from loss through these pests?
SIR G. TREVELYANI have not had my attention specially called to the meeting referred to in the hon. Member's question by the Chairman, or by any 1186 other person; nor have any representations in regard to the devastation by foxes been made to my Office. I am still inclined to think that the question of the suppression of foxes, before the Government is called upon to interfere, should be brought before the Highland County Councils, and pronounced on by them.
DR. MACGREGOR (Inverness-shire)May I humbly ask whether the time has not come when not only foxes but other wild animals should be evicted and way made for the restoration of human beings to their former holdings?